News

Oana Robson-Flatt, Director of Credit & Operations, Sonoma Capital Corporation

 

Before transitioning into asset-based finance and equipment leasing, I had a fulfilling career in banking, where I worked as a Senior Financial Advisor and Branch Compliance Officer for one of Canada's five major banks. I enjoyed the role and had the privilege of working with a fantastic team. It was a friend who encouraged me to explore a position in Credit at the company she worked for, at that time one of the most successful equipment leasing company in Canada. She spoke so highly of the company’s unique strong culture and the supportive leadership group, which later was led by Michael Dubowec, now President of Sonoma Capital. Intrigued by her description, I agreed to have a conversation with the hiring manager, Murray Derraugh, who eventually became my mentor. It was the passion, transparency, and openness in that conversation that convinced me that a rewarding career in equipment finance was the right path for me.

 

 

 

What really matters - It is not understanding cash flow calculations, data analytics, or legal and regulatory frameworks. While all those are required and important, what matters most is building strong trusted relationships with clients, suppliers, vendors, and partners. Personal connections are the key to growth and stability.

 

 

 

It is never boring; it is forward-thinking and fast-moving. I love that there is always something new to learn. It’s a progressive field that is always changing and growing, keeping pace with new technologies and ideas.

 

We have an opportunity to review some of the newest and most technologically advanced assets. Regardless of if it is a solar panel reefer trailer, a zero-emission truck, or a new healthcare digital assistant, we research and explore the unknown.

 

 

 

A few different motivators resonate with me:

 

 

My greatest achievement in my career has been helping to start and build Sonoma Capital. I signed my offer letter on January 31, 2022, and joined the company as the fourth employee, and since then, I’ve had the privilege of playing a pivotal role in shaping the company’s growth and success.

Managing the portfolio of a new company in equipment leasing, especially during a period of significant economic uncertainty, has been both challenging and rewarding. The economic climate, marked by fluctuating interest rates and unpredictable market conditions, required strategic foresight, adaptability, and resilience. Despite these obstacles, we were able to optimize the portfolio’s performance by focusing on building strong client relationships, maintaining rigorous risk management practices, creating a well diversified portfolio, and identifying opportunities for growth. This accomplishment is particularly fulfilling because it shows our ability to thrive in difficult circumstances, positioning the company for long-term success and stability.

Confidence of Megill-Stephenson Company Limited, who previously founded one of the most successful equipment leasing company in Canada, making a large investment in Sonoma Capital as a long-time partner was an extremely proud moment.

 

I look forward to continuing our journey with Sonoma Capital. We have an outstanding team of skilled professionals who collaborate seamlessly and support each other, and I am excited to see what the future holds for us.

 

 

 

The Canadian equipment leasing industry has experienced significant changes since I began my career but especially over the last 5 years due to various factors such as technological advancement, economic shifts, and regulatory developments. Industry veterans have referred to these years as unprecedented times. There has been an increased demand for flexibility starting with businesses needed flexible solutions to manage cash flow and deal with uncertainty during the Covid-19 pandemic. There have been supply chain disruptions that caused delays in equipment availability that led to an increased demand for used assets. This caused used asset prices to increase leasing companies to buy at inflated costs. 

 

Digital transformation embraced by the industry making processes more efficient and advanced technologies such as automation and AI. Renewable energy equipment has grown significantly. Non-traditional non-bank players entered the industry offering innovative and faster financing solutions. 

 

Driven by advancement in technology there has been a significant rise in cyber-enabled fraud and increased sophistication of fraud schemes, synthetic identity fraud and advanced forgery, defaulting under false pretenses, bogus vendor scams, and fraudulent intermediaries willing to falsify information and mislead leasing companies. The demand for quicker approvals outpaces robust due diligence. Our industry is responding by increasing due diligence and leveraging AI tools and digital verification, and by increased collaboration between industry players sharing information.

 

 

 

So many things…continue to grow both personally and professionally, continue to improve skills and gain knowledge and most importantly make a positive impact both at work and in my personal life.

 

 

 

Staying calm and assessing the situation trying to understand it fully and identifying the root cause. Then dividing the problem into smaller components and tackle them strategically and systematically.

Being honest with myself and others, recognizing my mistakes and learning from them, being non-judgmental and understanding of others and keeping in mind that everyone is dealing with something different in their life.

Sometimes overcoming a challenge at work means guiding and motivating your team while removing the obstacles. 

 

 

 

Construction because it an essential industry with predictable demand especially for large infrastructure projects, commercial and government contracts. Many of the companies have strong credit history and steady cash flow. The equipment is solid, has strong recovery and high value.

 

 

 

Europe – I moved to Canada when I was 16 so I enjoy going to visit my birth town, Bucharest. It is a vibrant and dynamic place to visit with impressive historic buildings, quaint shops, and charming cafes. Loads of childhood memories, dear friends and family, and special places is why I am inextricably tied to this place. I also love Italy, who does not love La Dolce Vita? Whether it is wandering through a Roman ruin, savouring lemon gelato in a piazza, or enjoying a gondola ride through Venice’s canals, Italy has a timeless beauty and an unmatched charm. 

Another favourite place is Falcon Lake in Manitoba, I love spending time at the cottage with the family. It is a serene place that allows me to escape the busyness of everyday life and provides pure relaxation and the ability to make meaningful connections while enjoying the outdoors.

 

 

 

My top favourite books are Outliers by Malcom Gladwell, Atomic Habits by James Clear and Grit by Angela Duckworth.

 

Outliers is a very interesting book with a unique perspective on success shifting the focus of talent to sustained effort dedication, support and timing. What I love most about it, aside from Gladwell’s storytelling skills, is the fact that it encourages gratitude for the factors and people that supported your journey, and it motivates the want to mentor and support others.

 

Atomic Habits provides methods to build good habits and break bad ones. It focuses on small incremental changes making the shifts easy to apply without becoming overwhelming. It inspires long term change, and it can be tailored to any goals.

 

Grit is a favourite because it emphasizes the power of perseverance, passion, and resilience over natural talent. Angela Duckworth's exploration of how effort and determination lead to long-term success resonates deeply with me, especially in challenging times when progress may feel slow. The book teaches that talent alone isn't enough; it's the ability to keep going, adapt, and overcome obstacles that truly defines success. It’s a motivating reminder that achieving great things takes time, effort, and grit—a message that inspires both my personal and professional life.

 

 

 

I used to play basketball, but now my physical activity primarily consists of working out at the gym. I also enjoy doing yoga occasionally and sometimes participate in spin classes. Sports have always been important to me because they teach valuable life skills like discipline, time management, and resilience. They also foster cooperation, communication, and collaboration. Physical activity, in general, is essential to my well-being because it serves as a natural stress reliever, and I always feel great after a rewarding workout.

 

 

 

I cherish spending time with my family, friends, and my adventure-loving beagle, Bailey. I have a passion for traveling, reading, dancing, and practicing yoga and meditation. Recently, I've also picked up golf. Hosting events and cooking bring me joy, and I make an effort to support local markets when I do. Volunteering in the community is something I truly enjoy, and I’m eager to dedicate more time to it in the future.